DNA and Early Human HistoryNeandertals and Early Humans: But Did They Mate?

Studies in Molecular Evolution, especially those with forensic, ancient DNA or human history implications, provide a compelling framework for teaching. Since such research topics tend to capture the attention and imaginations of students, they provide excellent opportunities for instruction in basic biological disciplines such as evolutionary biology, genetics, molecular biology, physiology and anatomy, biochemistry and cell biology. In addition, they illustrate the capacity of biological studies to reinforce and contribute to knowledge in history, archaeology and anthropology, geography and geology, linguistics, law, and social studies. We are also provided with the opportunity to emphasize critical and recurrent themes in scientific research such as the importance of sample sizes and experimental design, the linkage between methodology and conclusions, and the differences between results, interpretation, and extrapolation. In this example we consider the nature of the relationship between Neandertals and the ancestors of modern humans.